A clavicle fracture is a break in the collarbone, which is one of the main bones in the shoulder.

It often occurs when someone falls on the shoulder, takes a direct hit to the collarbone, or falls onto an outstretched arm.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, a noticeable bump where the fracture is, and reduced shoulder movement.

A physical checkup and X-rays of the shoulder help in diagnosing a clavicle fracture.

Movement may be very restricted due to pain and looseness, and it's usually best to minimize movement at first.

Clavicle fractures are classified as midshaft, distal, or proximal based on where the break happens.

Not necessarily. Many midshaft fractures can heal without surgery using a sling, but surgery might be necessary for displaced or complex cases.

Non-surgical care typically involves using a sling or a figure-of-eight bandage for support, along with managing pain.

Surgery is required for badly displaced fractures, open fractures, or if the fracture breaks the skin or joints.

Surgery typically involves open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to realign and secure the collarbone with plates, screws, or rods.

Recovery usually takes between 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the fracture's severity and if surgery is necessary.

Yes, physical therapy often helps to regain strength, flexibility, and function in the shoulder and arm.

Pain relief can be achieved with over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or with prescribed pain medications.

A basic arm sling or a figure-of-eight bandage is commonly used to support the arm and shoulder.

Yes, a bump at the fracture site is typical due to bone healing and callus formation and usually gets smaller over time.

Your ability to return to work depends on your job type and recovery; desk jobs may allow for an earlier return than manual labor.

Sports should be avoided until healing is complete, generally after 8-12 weeks, and only when your doctor gives clearance.

Possible complications include nonunion, malunion, nerve or blood vessel injury, and stiffness in the shoulder.

Yes, extended immobilization can lead to stiffness or a frozen shoulder, stressing the importance of early and safe movement.

Surgery risks include infection, damage to nerves or blood vessels, and problems with surgical materials.

Regular check-ups and X-rays help ensure that the bone is healing correctly.

Good nutrition with calcium and vitamin D helps bone healing, but check with your doctor before taking any supplements.

Do not lift heavy things, push, pull, or do overhead movements until your healthcare provider says it's okay.

Possible causes could be lack of proper immobilization, big fracture displacement, or other health issues.

Yes, surgery usually leaves a scar, but efforts are made to keep it less noticeable.

It's generally better to sleep on your back to avoid pressure on the fracture area.

Casts are rarely used; mainly, slings and bandages help keep the area stable.

Initial numbness can happen from swelling, but lasting numbness should be checked for nerve issues.

Start with light range-of-motion exercises, then work on strengthening as guided by a physical therapist.

Medical help is essential for correct alignment and healing, even if some fractures might stay aligned by themselves.

Yes, they are quite common among children due to their bone structure and activity level.

Children’s bones heal quicker and often need less treatment, while adults may have more issues with alignment.

It’s best to avoid driving until you regain enough arm control and have a go-ahead from a healthcare provider.

Do strength-building exercises, steer clear of high-risk activities, and wear protective gear in contact sports.

The outlook is usually positive, with most people regaining full function, especially with good treatment.

Smoking can slow healing and raise the chance of complications, like nonunion.

Once significant healing occurs, massage might help reduce stiffness and improve movement, with physiotherapist approval.

Yes, falls—especially onto the shoulder or arm—are a common reason for clavicle fractures.

Less pain, more movement, and follow-up X-rays showing bone healing are good signs.

While it’s not mandatory, it’s generally helpful to restore full shoulder function.

Yes, re-injury is possible, especially if risky activities are resumed before full healing or strength returns.

Factors can include smoking, bad nutrition, severe fracture shifts, and underlying health issues.

It keeps the shoulders back to help with alignment and encourage healing.

By regular clinical check-ups and X-rays to monitor healing progress.

Follow prescribed guidelines and engage in recommended activities. Physical therapy, eat good food, and stay away from risks of getting hurt again.

Rarely, but it can happen if metal parts were put in during surgery.

Usually, a sling is used for 3 to 6 weeks, based on the kind of fracture and how fast it heals.

You can do finger, wrist, and elbow movements but keep the shoulder still until your doctor says it’s fine.

Surgery usually works well for tough fractures.

If pain gets worse, swelling increases, you have a fever, feel numbness, or have any worries about healing, see your doctor.